Discover everything you need to know about caring for the vibrant Ficus Altissima "Little Gem." This guide provides comprehensive details to help you keep your plant healthy and thriving.
Quick Look
- 🌞 Lighting needs: Bright, indirect light
- 💧 Watering needs: Moderate, allow topsoil to dry
- 📏 Mature Height: Up to 3-4 feet indoors
- 🌱 How to propagate: Stem cuttings
- 🚫 Toxic/non-toxic: Toxic to pets
- 🌸 Flowering: No
Ficus Altissima Care Guide
Ficus Altissima "Little Gem" is a striking indoor plant with large, variegated leaves that add a touch of elegance to any space.
This plant is known for its relatively low maintenance requirements and adaptability, making it a favorite among plant enthusiasts.
Lighting Needs
Ficus Altissima "Little Gem" thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near an east, south, or west-facing window where it can receive filtered sunlight.
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves and cause the variegation to fade.
Watering Needs
Water your Ficus Altissima "Little Gem" moderately. Check the top 4 inches of soil and water only when dry.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the pot has good drainage and avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Potting and Soil Requirements
This plant prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH. Use an indoor potting mix or cactus soil.
Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom.
Re-pot annually to avoid the plant becoming root-bound.
Mature Height
When grown indoors, Ficus Altissima "Little Gem" can reach a height of 3 to 4 feet, making it suitable for small spaces and perfect for adding a vertical element to your interior decor.
How to Propagate
Propagate using stem cuttings. Cut a healthy stem just below a leaf node, dip it in rooting hormone, and plant it in moist, well-draining soil.
Keep the soil consistently moist until new growth appears.
Temperature & Humidity
Ficus Altissima thrives in temperatures between 65°F (18°C) and 85°F (29°C). It prefers moderate to high humidity (50%-70%).
Increase humidity by misting the plant, placing it near a humidity tray, or using a room humidifier.
Fertilizing
Feed your Ficus Altissima with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
A gentle, water-soluble fertilizer used with each watering can help maintain the plant's vibrant leaves.
Pruning
Prune in early spring or late winter to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth.
Use clean, sharp pruning shears and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Toxicity
The Ficus Altissima "Little Gem" is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. It contains a milky sap that can cause irritation upon contact with skin.
Keep this plant out of reach of pets and children.
Common Pests and Problems
- Mealybugs: Remove with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- Spider Mites: Increase humidity and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale Insects: Remove manually and treat with rubbing alcohol.
- Root Rot: Prevent by using well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering.
- Leaf Spot Diseases: Avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation.
With these tips, your Ficus Altissima Little Gem should thrive, adding beauty and life to your indoor space. Enjoy nurturing your green companion!
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